Inadequate Safety Can Result in a Premises Liability Case

Keeping the power grid up and running in New Jersey is a critical task performed by dedicated employees. Working in an electrical power environment carries some risks. While employees may be aware of the risks, they also have a right to expect to be safe while on the job. Failure to adequately provide for safety may result in a premises liability case.

At a power plant in Mount Laurel, the expectation of worker safety was not met. An employee was tragically killed when he was pulled onto a conveyor belt. The company is facing $125,460 in penalties.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the company for 25 safety violations. These included a lack of safety guards on the conveyor. Also included was a lack of training. The employees were not trained in lockout/tagout procedures that could have prevented the tragic accident. Other hazards included were danger of electric shock, fall hazards and inadequate emergency evacuation, along with fire prevention and hazardous energy control procedures.

Precautions can be taken by both employees and employers to endeavor to be safe in the workplace in New Jersey, but regardless of the care taken, accidents, sometimes fatal, can still occur. If a loved one is killed in a workplace accident due to possible premises liability, the family of the deceased may wish to seek the counsel of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. In the event of a tragic fatal accident in the workplace, the family of the deceased may be entitled to certain workers’ compensation benefits. Such benefits may help with medical expenses, end of life costs and other losses incurred as a result of the accident and a knowledgeable lawyer may be able to help guide the deceased’s family through the process.